The survey focuses on top supply chain challenges faced by respondents, with questions involving counterfeiting impacts and anti-counterfeiting measures, climate change, various supply chain fluctuations, expectations around component demand and business growth, and perspectives on the evolving role of independent distributors in the global supply chain.

One key purpose of Smith’s survey is to gauge the challenges and concerns faced by all major industry sectors, from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Original Design Manufacturers (ODMs) to distributors, and to determine how industry players at all strata of the supply chain expect these challenges and the overall industry outlook to evolve in the coming year. This marks the second year Smith has conducted the Global Supply Chain Survey, with 2013’s survey results revealing concerns over component or device recalls; consumer safety issues; governments regulations and legislation; component counterfeiting; reverse logistics; e-waste; and competitive device cycles.

“The supply chain isn’t static, and so our awareness of it can’t be static, either,” said Mark Bollinger, Smith & Associates’ Vice President of Marketing. “With conditions, technologies, and challenges in our industry constantly evolving, it’s absolutely vital for anyone involved in the supply chain to be in tune with the most current developments. This is the primary reason Smith conducts our yearly Global Supply Chain Survey: through our findings, we hope to be able to better understand the market experiences and needs of current and potential customers, while also sharing key perspectives and knowledge with the supply chain as a whole.”

The survey will be conducted over the next several weeks, and – at its conclusion – a winner will be drawn from all survey participants for an iPad Mini as thanks for participation in Smith & Associates’ study. In addition, detailed results of the survey will be analyzed and reported in early 2014.

Founded in Houston in 1984, Smith & Associates is a leader in the independent distribution of semiconductors and electronic components to electronics and high-tech manufacturers. Smith offers shortage sourcing for commodity and obsolete parts, innovative purchasing and inventory management solutions, redistribution of excess inventory, and component stocking for warranty and repair programs.

A privately-held company, Smith & Associates employs more than 350 people worldwide, with annual revenue in excess of US $450 million. Smith's regional hubs in Houston, Hong Kong, and Amsterdam are ISO certified. In addition, sales and purchasing offices are located in Austin, Silicon Valley, Guadalajara, New York, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, and Denver. For more information, see http://www.smithweb.com/ or, to reach a Smith representative 24 hours a day, please call: 1.800.HOUSTON or +1 713.430.3000.

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For more information, contact: Mark Bollinger Smith & Associates, V.P. of Marketing +1 713.430.3000
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